In the ever-evolving landscape of fantasy football, strategies come and go like the wind. One approach that has gained popularity and sparked lively debates among fantasy managers is the Zero RB strategy. In this article, we will dive into the intricacies of this bold draft strategy. We’ll be examining its principles, advantages, and potential pitfalls. I’ll also provide 5 names to remember during your fantasy draft.
Can You Win with the Zero RB Strategy in 2023 Fantasy Football?
Understanding the Zero RB Strategy
The Zero RB strategy challenges conventional wisdom by emphasizing the devaluation of running backs early in fantasy drafts. Instead, it advocates prioritizing elite wide receivers, tight ends, and even quarterbacks in the early rounds. Running backs are typically considered the backbone of fantasy rosters. Advocates of this strategy seek to exploit positional scarcity and capitalize on the depth of other positions.
Advantages of the Zero RB Strategy
Increased Flexibility
By prioritizing wide receivers and other positions, Zero RB managers gain the advantage of building a team with exceptional depth and flexibility. This approach allows for easier maneuverability during the season. This way there is a greater abundance of viable options to fill roster spots. This is especially true in leagues that require you to start three wide receivers.
Elite Talent at Other Positions
Drafting elite wide receivers, tight ends, and quarterbacks early can provide an immediate edge over opponents. These players often have a higher ceiling and more consistent production. This advantage can pay off handsomely, especially in point-per-reception (PPR) leagues, where the value of receptions is heightened.
Avoiding the Risk of Injuries and Busts
Running backs are prone to injuries and inconsistency, making them a high-risk position. By de-emphasizing running backs early in drafts, Zero RB managers mitigate the risk of selecting players who may be more susceptible to injuries or experience a significant decline in production.
5 Potential Zero RB Drafter’s Delights
Alvin Kamara (ADP #88): We’re all aware of the legal situation. We all wish we could forget the mediocre stats he put up last season. The bottom line is that he’s too talented to be drafted in the 7th round of fantasy drafts. The fact that he’s being drafted so late makes him a medium-risk, high-reward player that has the potential to be the steal of the draft.
Rashaad Penny (ADP #110 ): Running behind what is arguably the best offensive line in football, Penny should enjoy plenty of goal-line success. The obvious catch here is that Rashaad will have to stay healthy if he’s going to put up the stats. The Birds traded for D’Andre Swift on draft day, adding competition to the room. Seeing as they both have an extensive injury history, sharing the load might be exactly what they both need.
Damien Harris (ADP #115): James Cook, while talented, is not an every-down back in the NFL. One could even argue that he’s not even built to carry the ball on early downs. With that being said, Damien Harris is sure to have his role on this explosive offense. In fact, the veteran is probably the best running back that the Bills have seen in recent years.
D’Onta Foreman (ADP #126): If size and NFL experience are any indication, Foreman has the upper hand to lead the Bears’ running back committee to start the 2023 season. Foreman had six games last season in which he rushed for over 100 yards, which is exactly the big play ability that you should target when using the Zero RB strategy.
Zach Charbonnet (ADP #108): The great unknown is often the reason that rookies fall in fantasy drafts. Charbonnet may not be in a situation where he’ll dominate the carries, but he is in a place where carries are dang near guaranteed. The coaching staff was so fired up to draft Zach that the Seahawks’ run game coordinator Chad Morton asked Charbonnet if he was “ready to run the air out of the football” during the telephone call. Seattle has always had a healthy rushing attack, the addition of Charbonnet only solidifies this commitment.
Pitfalls and Risks of the Zero RB Strategy
1. Limited Access to Elite Running Backs
The main drawback of the Zero RB strategy is the reduced access to elite running backs. These workhorse players often carry the potential for high-volume touches and substantial fantasy points. Relying on later-round running backs can be risky. It may be challenging to find consistent producers who can match the output of elite options.
2. Increased Dependency on Wide Receivers and Other Positions
By focusing on wide receivers and other positions early in the draft, Zero RB managers place a significant burden on these players to perform consistently. If the chosen wide receivers underperform or experience injuries, it may leave the team in a precarious situation, lacking the necessary depth to compete.
3. Variability of Running Back Production
While running backs are inherently risky, they remain a crucial component of fantasy rosters. While the Zero RB strategy aims to devalue the position, it also relies on the unpredictable nature of running back production. If later-round running backs fail to deliver, it can leave Zero RB managers scrambling to find reliable options.
The Zero RB strategy challenges the traditional approach to fantasy football drafts, offering a bold and innovative path to assembling a competitive team. While it presents significant advantages, such as flexibility, access to elite talent in other positions, and the potential to exploit waiver wire opportunities, it is not without its risks. It requires careful execution, a keen eye for value, and a willingness to adapt throughout the season. Ultimately, the success of the Zero RB strategy hinges on astute roster management and the ability to navigate the ever-changing landscape of fantasy football.
For more great rankings and analysis, make sure to check out our 2023 Fantasy Football Draft Kit!
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— Lisa Ann (@thereallisaann) May 6, 2023